If you have a tendency to urinate more than normal, then you must get yourself checked, as you might be suffering from an overactive bladder (OAB). Here are a few ways to manage the condition:
1. Behavioral therapies
Behavioral therapies are one of the most common treatment options for an overactive bladder, and are prescribed by many doctors. Some of the common options include:
- Pelvic floor muscle exercises
As the name suggests, these strengthen your pelvic muscles, which can stop your bladder’s involuntary contractions. Kegel exercises are one of the prescribed exercises.
- Scheduled trips to the toilet
You can train yourself to go to the washroom every few hours. This way, you can train yourself to urinate at fixed times during the day, which can help your OAB greatly.
- Exercise
Being overweight can put a lot of pressure on your bladder and may cause bladder issues. On the other hand, weight loss can help you remove that pressure and bring the state of your bladder back to normal.
2. Balanced fluid intake
It is important to consume fluids that are non-irritating in nature. Instead of not drinking fluids at all, which can lead to yellow or smelly urine, you should stay hydrated, and most preferably, stop drinking water or any other liquid two to three hours prior to going to bed. Also, you should decrease or avoid the intake of fluids, such as caffeinated drinks, tea, citrus juices, or drinks that contain artificial sweeteners.
3. Medications
Whether or not you are practising behavioral techniques, your doctor may combine these therapies or techniques with some medications to speed up the treatment. It is important to enquire about the risk of using such medications. Two of the most common kinds of medications include anticholinergic drugs, such as Tolterodine, Fesoterodine, and Oxybutynin, and beta-3 adrenergic medications, such as Myrbetriq.
4. Try herbal treatment options
There are several herbs that can be consumed directly and through supplements to treat an overactive bladder. Again, just like any other treatment option, it is highly advisable to consult your doctor before consuming any herb or herbal supplement. Here are two herbs that are effective in managing overactive bladder:
- Chili peppers
The fleshy part of chilli peppers contains a compound called capsaicin, which is commonly used to treat pelvic pain syndrome, which is also a symptom of overactive bladder.
- Corn silk
Corn silk is a material obtained through corn cultivation. It is traditionally used to treat bladder irritation and can help in strengthening mucus membranes in the urinary tract.
5. Turn to injections
Botox is injected into the bladder tissues in small doses to control severe urge incontinence. Botox injections temporarily paralyze the bladder muscles, which greatly help in controlling OAB.
If the above-mentioned steps are taken on time, then the condition can be treated and managed effectively.
